My first guest for my ‘Men of Urban Fantasy’ Week is author Keith Melton. Keith was born in Arizona, but now lives in Oregon with his writer wife, daughter and son, and a demon possessed cat (his words not mine!). He is the author of the new urban fantasy Nightfall series and you can read my review of Book 1, Blood Vice here.
So please give a warm welcome to Keith…
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It’s always interesting to see the different approaches Urban Fantasy authors take to world building within a UF series. Does the author freely mix paranormal creatures with humans? Are there shifters, Fae, demons, mages, etc. interacting directly with human society, influencing and being influenced by laws and mores and culture? Or does the author envision human society at large as ignorant of the paranormal underworld, with various creatures taking great pains to maintain the secrecy?
When a writer uses paranormal creatures which are out of the closet (as it were), the story becomes a type of alternate history where the writer can intermix contemporary culture with fantastical elements, coming up with an entirely new take on modern society. Besides being just plain fun to read about vampire casinos, necromancer cops, or cage fights between angels and demons, etc. the tension between larger human society and the smaller societies of paranormals allows writers to explore some very serious themes. Segregation, alienation, and fear from both groups. Racism (Species-ism?) The rule of law versus vigilantism. Self-determination and freedom. Some examples: the Hollows in Kim Harrison’s series, the Fae reservation in Patricia Briggs’s Mercy Thompson series, or Nancy Holzner’s Deadtown, all do this very well.
Then there are the other kinds of worlds, where the paranormal hasn’t yet made itself known to humanity, and the larger status quo of “reality” must be maintained. There must be very careful, very well thought out reasons why in an age of cell phone cameras, spy satellites, and forensics teams, the stranger creatures of the world haven’t been noticed.
My Nightfall Syndicate series takes place within this second kind of world. In Blood Vice, the paranormal underworld is hidden, even actively suppressed by a pseudo-religious order, the Order of the Thorn, whose knights pack extremely modern technology mixed with magic and are fully dedicated to keeping the larger human world from learning the truth. Yet, information which could easily be suppressed in the Middle Ages is much harder to control in the Internet age. The Order of the Thorn is increasingly challenged to cover up the existence of this underworld, using any means necessary. Often it becomes difficult to tell which side is the true monster, or if that term no longer even applies.
In Blood Vice, the problems of containment are only just beginning as a mafia turf war bleeds into a vampire war for control of Boston. Vampire and mafia hit man Karl Vance is allowed to roam free because he’s earned amnesty from the Thorn and only preys upon criminals, but despite the Thorn’s best efforts, a D-Day looms on the horizon when the hidden underworld will explode onto the scene. How much longer can knowledge be suppressed? And at what cost?
So readers, do you have a preference for an open UF world where creatures are out and involved in society, or a more closed UF world where secrecy must be maintained? Or does it not matter? Any favorite examples?
(Oh, and special thanks to Book Chick City for inviting me to the Men of Urban Fantasy Week, although I still thought she should’ve gone with my Men of Urban Fantasy calendar idea. Money in the bank.) *A men of urban fantasy calendar, what a great idea – should have thought of that! Darn it! ;D*
With regards to your question, I think I like both kinds: the supernatural world hidden and known. To me it’s all about how good the story is. I love this question though and I’m interested in hearing what others think.
Thanks Keith, for a great post! And thank you so much for being part of my ‘Men of Urban Fantasy’ week!
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Contest Time!!
Keith is giving away a copy of Blood Vice to a random commentator who answers the underlined question above.
Please leave your email address with your answer.
This contest is International and ends Saturday (27th), winner will be announced on Sunday (28th)
Good Luck!!
80 Comments
Only if that caledar includes your cover model Keith. I'm still waiting for his name. Ahem.
Don't enter me, I gots me a copy but I had to harrass Keith!
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Ooh! A calendar would have been awesome! YUM!
For thee question, I too agree that it depends on the book and story.
I have been DYING to read and review Blood Vice! Maybe this will be my lucky comment! LOL
Amy J
djsfoxylady@gmail.com
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I prefer my UF to be out and proud, much like Elton John.
PS I'm down with the 'men of urban fantasy calendar' – I'm picturing men holding books in "certain places".
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I can't say that I have a preference. The open world is cool, but so is the cool one. I enjoyed On the edge by Patricia Briggs were some knew. But then closed ones like Kelley Armstrongs are so good too
blodeuedd1 at gmail dot com
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It doesn't matter to me if the paranormal is out in the open or shrouded in secrecy – as long as the book is well written!
julstew at gmail dot com
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I enjoy the hidden world more, I guess (all else being equal). It adds an additional element of interest to the story–more potential for trouble, which is always good!
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I agree with you on your answer to the question. It all depends on how the story is written. Favorite example is the Fever series by Karen Marie Moning. I think it was in her most recent book (the 4th, maybe) that the Fae and all the monsters were released into Ireland.
Thanks for the contest! I'd love to read and review it on my blog. It sounds like a very interesting and unique read.
-Kelsey
krae991@yahoo.com
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Good question – there are benefits to both worlds. The secrecy world is easier for me to relate as it's essentially the 'real' world but the exploration of when and how the supernaturals come out is always exciting. I don't think any book I've read has dealt with the coming out period yet in UF so I'm looking forward to Blood Vice! Put me in the draw please!
mel_symonds'at'hotmail'dot'com
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@WickedLilPixie
HA! Some day you'll believe me when I tell you I don't know that guy. Truly, honestly, he's not my long lost brother or anything… And if I DO find out his name I'm sure we can arrange a little payment plan for the info, nothing too expensive, of course. ;D
@Smokinhotbooks
You've invented a whole new genre of skin calendar: Book Beefcake
@Amy J
Thanks Amy! ^_^
@Blodeuedd
I agree. Both types have fascinating possibilities.
@julie s
Well said. ^_^
@Melissa
True, it does add another element of tension to all the action and character motivations.
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I actually like a mix of the two. I like for some of the paranormal world to be out to the human world, but for some to still be unknown. It accounts for the whole "how can they all be hidden in this technological age" problem while still allowing for some mystery. I have to say that Charlaine Harris walks this line particularly well.
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I dont have a preference. It really depends on which fits the story better. I have read and enjoyed both kinds.
bacchus76 at myself dot com
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Oh I love this question – and the cover isn't horrible, though a tad romance novel-ish. Not bad, but your book sounds like its more appealing to both sexes, and the cover appeals more to women. Well.
Anyway, I don't really mind which is done, but it all really depends on the characters. On one hand, if your characters are badass vampire hunters who like guns and action and being totally crazy, then an open world makes more sense. Then, at least you can believe they let their crazy out. On the other hand, if your characters are more mysterious or relationship orientated people, then a closed world is more interesting. It leaves for options of fobidden love and dark secrets and all of that fun stuff. And good writing could easily make or break the setting as well. Some authors just work better with one or the other. Amelia Atwater-Rhodes is a good example of closed world. Her characters are amazingly well developed because of all of the fun options it opened for her.
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Oh, johnrj@mail.com If you need email that is.
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I like both ideas. When it's out in the open, I like to read the history the author creates, how the paranormal is intertwined with the 'normal'. But then I also like the keep things hidden scenarios, keeping things underground.
lol, I'm on the fence on this one I think.
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I prefer a hidden world. I like mystery and shadows and worlds built just out of sight. Just makes it more interesting for me I think. An open world can sometimes seem mundane.
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Nat-we may have to fight over the cover model unless you can share.
(no contest entry for me, i have read and loved the book!)
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Yes Keith, I am stalking you. *too bright smile*
Now, to answer your question:
I am sure I prefer the paranormal to be hidden. Therefore, I can allow my *coughpsychosiscough* imagination to run wild with all the possibilities while I go about my boring harmless daily activities. *blink* *blink*
Oh, and… you are already on my calendar Keith. Every. Page.
mdwartistry at yahoo dot com
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I think I should stop looking at that swoon-worthy cover *lol*
In my opinion, I love the hidden, underground world better. Because it kind of added more to the mysterious feeling of things and it is interesting too see how they keep things secret.
Shy
shy8629(at)gmail(dot)com
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Honestly, I like both scenarios. It doesn't matter to me . . . I like pretty much all UF. Thanks!
rosie0512 @ hotmail . com
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Hmmm, I think it depends on the book, though I always like some secrecy.
carianmoonlight at gmail dot com
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cmsutt@gmail.com
As a law student, all else being equal, I prefer when supernatural creatures are in the open because it's always fun to see the legal issues being discussed in books. For instance, the Anita Blake books (used to) look at how to balance fairness with the impossibility of imprisoning some of the creatures. The Mercy Thompson books deal with how old fae laws comingle with new human laws. The Southern Vampire series deals with citizenship issues, etc.
However, unfortunately all else is rarely equal and I care a lot more about the characters and writing, etc.
However your intellectual stance has interested me and I intend to pick up the book, which before now had somehow slipped under my radar.
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I like both. It really depends on the story.
Raelena
throuthehaze at gmail dot com
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@Kelsey
I haven't read Moning yet, but I hear good things. I'll have to check that series out.
@Mel Symonds
Knowing people, following a coming out period of paranormal creatures, someone would open a theme park and sell t-shirts and action figures…
@Amanda
Interesting. I believe the Mercy series also starts out with society knowing about Fae but largely ignorant of werewolves.
@donnas
Yep, I've seen both styles done very well.
@John the Bookworm
Interesting points. I'll have to check out Amelia Atwater-Rhodes.
@Beth
Yeah, option C: Either/Or
@Irene
Hmm. I hadn't thought about an open paranormal world being mundane, but that's certainly something to consider…a loss of wonder as the fantastic becomes too commonplace…
@Tiffany aka Kindlevixen
Watch out for Natasha. She carries a shiv! I heard that on Twitter! O_O
@Sweet Vernal Zypher
LoL! Yeah, what about that May calendar photo where I'm mowing the lawn in plaid shorts and black socks. How awesome was that shot? ^_^
Oh, and I see your blog has a link to werewolf PNR writer-duo Moira Rogers. Be careful of those two…I hear rumors they belong to the Alabama Mafia.
@Shy
True, true. A hidden world does add that extra dimension of suspense.
@Rosie
Good to hear!
@Silent Raven
Something I'll keep in mind. A lot of people agree with you.
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I think I've been liking the combo between those that are known and those that have yet to come to light. Sookie Stackhouse series comes to mind. Also, other books like the Greywalker series. I love it when a character knows about one and is surprised to find out there are more truths out there with magical creatures.
Oh, and I agree with Smokinghotbooks and you… We want book beefcake! It doesn't need to be in calender form, however.
Melissa (Books and Things)
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Have been so exctied to read this!
I honestly do not know if I have ever read a UF with an open world. I imagine it would be very interesting to write. I think a combination of the two is ideal and gives writers a great avenue for suspense.
If this contest is for a printed copy count me in! No ereader yet
robin [at] intensewhisper [dot] com
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Keith – she is also not afraid to give you a good kick to the head with her slut shoes. And the worst part? You can't even distract her with donuts.
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@WickedLilPixie
I meant MONEY! Honest to god.
Sooooo…if anyone else needs me, I'll just be over here in the corner, furiously embarrassed and drinking straight from the bottle…
@Cally Beck
The legal issues would be massive–a whole new set of case law to establish. I agree, those are a few of the reasons I find the series you mentioned fascinating.
@throuthehaze
::nods in agreement::
@Melissa
LoL! Could really increase the foot traffic in bookstores. ;D
@Robin K
Yep, it's for a Print copy, so we'll count you in! ^_^
@Tiffany aka Kindlevixen
Not even able to distract her with donuts? She's like the Terminator.
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Great post & an interesting question. I actually like both – I love the way Kim Harrison has set up her world with everyone out in the open but humans not quite sure how to deal with the paranormal beings. But I also love the secrecy involved in series like the Black Dagger Brotherhood & Rachel Vincent's Shifters series.
I hadn't heard of Blood Vice before but it sounds great & has been added to my wishlist
) Thanks for hosting the giveaway
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Keith…..rotflmao! Seriously, don't even worry about it, it made me laugh. You're easy to embarass, thanks for giving me that ammo.
Tiff/KV…SHUSH! lol
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Depends on what the mood of the story is, to how i like their secretcy. I prefer them to be kinda secretish in their little area of supernatural, but the rest of society has some hints, but unknown, if that makes sense. But most of the time i like both, as long as the story is good!
bianca.riot.08(@)hotmail.com
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Nat, have you seen pics of Keith? I would take what he offers, forget the money. Tho I imagine his wife would probably arm wrestle you over it….
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I kind of like when there is a secret UF world within ours, but there are a few "special" people who know about it.
lizzi0915 at aol dot com
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I like when UF are out in society or just happened because they are learning to adapt. I think Anita Blakes series by Laurell Hamiltons is a good example.
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I doesn't matter to me if the book is in a more open or remote place. I think the story line, characters and the book in general is more inportant!
twilightforever.edward(at)gmail(dot)com
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Doesn't matter to me one way or the other. I like em both!!
I follow
mlawson17 at hotmail dot com
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To the question. Personally I like a mix of everything. Rich hidden worlds have always intrigued me. But the complexity that goes into creating an alternative history is really fun. I don't think I could choose between the two, ever!
Me likes the calender idea. Smokinhotbooks idea intrigues me. ^_- As long as I get a vote for who is in the calender!
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Great post, and to answer your question I'm not sure it would matter all that much to me either way. It depends more on how the story is written and how well any tension between the "normal" world and those that are paranormal is handled.
fforgnayr@yahoo.com
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Great interview and great cover! I like both types of stories I like what Kim has done with her series. It does up the tension though If your trying to keep the creatures of the night secret. THis book is a definite Tbr
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I forgot my email
mailkaicharles@yahoo.com
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I would read books with either setting if it is well written but it does seem to me that the present mood is to make them part of society and I think the sneaking around and mystery can be better for building the right mood for the book.
Carol T
buddytho{at} gmail DOT com
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I prefer an open world for my UF. Couldn't even really say why just that is what I go for when looking for books.
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Oh! I hope I am not late! Work and school kept me from reading this post! =) I like both, sometimes I am in the mood for the secrecy, yet sometimes I feel like reading about a mix, you know? A world where everything is known.
Also, I quite liked that idea of the calendar… Sounds pretty interesting… hmm *thoughtful*
Nice post!
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Oh… Email-> ale_bodden11@hotmail.com
Sorry *grin*
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Hm, I don't have a preference. I've read great books in both variants. BUt I think when it's an open UF world, the author has more options, although the world needs better detailing then.
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I like both worlds: the open & the closed UF world. Just like Book Chick City, for me what's important is the story itself, it doesn't matter if it's hidden or known.
My mail: sandric.sk(at)gmail(dot)com
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I prefer the open UF world. I think it's a lot more interesting to read how regular humans react to vamps, weres, etc. One of my favorite examples is the Sookie Stackhouse series. There are cults after vamps and all kinds of other crazy things going on. I also LOVE Gena Showalters' Alien Huntress Series. I love to read about the different type of aliens now living on Earth amongst humans. You get to see how the humans feel about the aliens and get the aliens point of view. Most of them think humans are weak of course. lol
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I like the open UF world. Just because it is so different from our own… haha, I like to wonder which of my friends would be weres or vampires. I mean, come on, think about it, hilarious. The first one that came to mind was the Anita Blake series, even though it isn't one of my favorites. Hmm… yes. But really, some of my favorite books are "in the closet" when it comes to the UF world. hehe.
I have been dying to read Blood Vice. I hope I win! Great post- I totally want an Urban Fantasy calendar. Best idea ever. Haha.
rexreadingrobot at gmail dot com
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Whew, I’ve fallen behind…
@Sarah
Yep, I always thought Kim Harrison handles her alternate history version very well.
@bianca_riot
Makes complete sense, and I agree: good story is a good story.
@Bethie
I can only imagine how thrilling and terrifying it would feel to be one of the humans “in the know.”
@cait45
The whole learning-to-adapt aspect is also fascinating—a fish out of water kind of thing.
@Kailia Sage
Excellent point.
@Martha Lawson
Good to hear. ^_^
@Shera (Book Whispers)
I completely agree about the intrigue of the hidden world and the complexity of the open world.
@Ryan G
Thank you! It seems the prevailing opinion does seem to be readers can go with either but it must be well written and handled with skill.
@Fiction State of Mind
Thanks! I agree.
@buddyt
Hmm. At a glance, it does seem the current trend is to have them out in the open. Although I’ve never sat down and counted so I could be wrong.
@emmad
Good to know. Thanks!
@yummy hell faery
You’re not too late, and awesome name. ^_^
@Ines
Excellent points.
@Aleksandra
I agree.
@Bells
Very good points. I haven’t read any of the Gena Showalter’s books yet, but your description sounds intriguing.
@Rex Robot Reviews
After considering it, I think I’d rather my friends be weres or shifters than vamps.
No restrictions on daytime activities, take them to a restaurant and they order actual food, even if it’s raw meat. Also, necking with a werewolf and all you get is fur in your mouth and maybe some enthusiastic licking, but necking with a vamp is an entirely different enchilada. Or maybe that’s just TMI….
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I think they should be out and involved with society. I don't think there s/b any shame in being a UF character. Be proud! lol
and I would SO buy a UF Menz calendar!
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I prefer a world where secrecy must be maintained.
treerose AT yahoo DOT com
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Blood Vice is a book I've been meaning to get for a while now, so I'd love to win it!!
I prefer reading about a bit of both actually. I don't want to read about the same things all the time, so it's nice to have the mystery of the hidden world sometimes and the interesting new histories of the open world other times. As long as the characters and world can still grab me, then it doesn't matter what kind of story it is exactly.
Oh, I also think the idea of the calendar is a good one!
notreallysouthernvampchick(at)gmail(dot)com
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I've enjoyed both kinds of stories and I don't really have a preference. An example of a closed UF world that I enjoyed is Nicole Peeler's Tempest Rising. A large part of the plot is supernaturals trying to keep their existence a secret from humans. An example of an open UF world that I really enjoy is Keri Arthur's Riley Jensen series – the supernaturals are trying to protect normal humans from the more menacing of their kind.
I'm interested in reading Keith's books, Blood Vice sounds like a great story.
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My husband and I have debated about this a lot. I still can't make up my mind. I love so many books where it's hidden, but then a couple have come along that I love just as much where supernatural doings (like that word?) are part of the world. My husband keeps talking about a hidden dimension type of thing and I'm not getting into that for some reason. Seems to hard to manage to me.
Keith's cover is awesome by the way!
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I like when the supernatural is out in the open and when it's hidden. But my favorite is when the public finds out about the supernatural as the story goes along, like in Carrie Vaughn's Kitty Norville series.
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I like when the "world" is open and there is minimal need for secrecy. the freedom tends to open up much more possibility!
Great interview & event!
Kate
aka YzhaBella
http://yzhabellasbookshelf.blogspot.com/
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I like an an open UF world. It's interesting to see supernatural creatures trying to fit in to "normal" life. I love Charlaine Harris' vampire series where the vamps have come out of the coffin.
Diana
bookofsecrets(at)yahoo(dot)com
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Thanks for the giveaway!
So readers, do you have a preference for an open UF world where creatures are out and involved in society, or a more closed UF world where secrecy must be maintained? Or does it not matter? Any favorite examples?
I think i prefer UF more closed world, cause the history can have a little bit more of action or anothers good spins of the trama ^^
I really love hidden things that can be discovered along the book.
Liz
blogatlantico@gmail.com
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If a story is written well, it's written well. It doesn't matter but I do find the hidden ones have a bit more mystery.
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@Ferishia
LoL, a UF character rally cry. ^_^
@Emily H.
Thanks for commenting!
@Amanda Leigh
It is interesting to change things up from time to time. Keeps things fresh.
@Barbara E
I like Nicole Peeler’s series too. Haven’t read Keri Arthur, but I’ll have to check out that series too.
@Moonsanity
Thanks! And I’m glad to learn I’m not the only one who debates this kind of thing in my spare time. ^_^
@Sara M.
Ah, yeah– public finding out as the story progresses does make for some interesting drama.
@YzhaBella (aka Kate)
You’re right. Open world does allow a lot more freedom.
@Diana Owen-Emerson
“vamps have come out of the coffin”
LoL, excellent line, btw.
@Liz
Interesting. I also like the journey of discovery as the closed world starts to yield up its secrets to the reader.
@kimikimi
Very true.
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I enjoy both, count me in! tWarner419@aol.com
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I like both ideas, i love all type of urban fantasy.
Been dying to read BV for awhile now, thanks for the contest!
van p.
Littopandaxpress(at)yahoo(dot)com
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I definitely like a more secret/underground feel of the PN/UF worlds. Love how the worlds are portrayed like the underground hospital for demons in Larissa Ione's Demonica series and also love the secrecy/compound of the Black Dagger Brotherhood that J.R. Ward creates. I have Blood Vice on my to-read list and would love to win! Please enter me!
Thanks
Amy
tnsongbird865@aol.com
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Keith – Plaid shorts and black Tabi socks! so hot, and dangerous! Showing off your ninja side… grrr *wildly batting eyelashes*
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The secrecy adds to the story. I love the under current of a hidden world.
marypres@gmail.com
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It depends on the story, but when the supernatural world is hidden, there is always the chance of someone discovering it or a group wanting to reveal themselves to the rest, and I really like that plot point.
spav05(at)gmail(dot)com
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I have read both scenarios, hidden and open. I rather like the hidden UF better. It makes it more of a challenge to keep it that way. I kind of like that. Always having to look over your shoulder to make sure you haven't revealed something you shouldn't or the like. But I enjoy both. I just love to read UF.
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I have no real preference. As long as the internal logic of a world is kept, I'll read just about anything.
gevin13{at}gmail{dot}com
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I also read both but I like the secrecy better. It makes everything more mysterious and I LOVE mystery. Please enter me
barbrafl737 (at) yahoo (dot) com
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Very good question
I honestly think there are great stories for both situations. It really depends on the author and their ideas. I think my favorite series with secrets maintained is J R Ward's Black Dagger Brotherhood. I love the entire structure of her vampire world. As far as an open society, I think what Yasmine Galenorn has done with her Sisters of the Moon series is fantastic. The "otherworldly" beings are known about, but still a little bit of a mystery to humans. I can't wait to read Blood Vice, whether it's free or not 
Although I am a big fan of free.
Thanks for the fun post
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Honestly, I can go either way (out in the open or secrecy). I don't really have a "favorite", but the first one that comes to mind for "out in the open" is the Charlaine Harris Southern Vampire series (vampires are out in the open & shifters just came out as well – but faeries & elves are still secretive), so it's a nice combination of the two.
MamaKitty@Mamakittyreviews.com
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@van_pham
You’re very welcome! Good luck!
@tnsongbird
“underground hospital for demons” Now there’s a sweet idea.
@Sweet Vernal Zypher
HA! No wonder they kicked me out of Ninja School.
@marybelle
I does add another level of tension. Thanks for commenting!
@Spav
Excellent point. That kind of plot point has a lot of potential for suspense.
@Carolyn
I agree, it does make it a challenge for the characters to cover their footsteps.
@pixie13
Flawed internal logic is always a boogieman for writers—but from a reader POV, nothing pulls me out of a book faster.
@barbrafl
I love mysteries as well.
@Jennifer
Good points, and who doesn’t love free?
@Mama Kitty
I also like the Harris world. But where is your Ice-Blue-Eyed Kitty avatar?!
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@tetewa
Right on, we’ll count you in!
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I like secrecy. I like the whole "unknown" aspect of it. Humans just going about their lives none the wiser. All while vampires are living among them causing trouble
thebookvixen at gmail dot com
@thebookvixen
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Q: So readers, do you have a preference for an open UF world where creatures are out and involved in society, or a more closed UF world where secrecy must be maintained? Or does it not matter? Any favorite examples?
A: It does not matter to me. What matters is the story telling quality. How good is the author at spinning the tale?
Re-posted your contest at: http://contests-freebies.blogs.....-city.html
Twitted: http://twitter.com/cherrymisch.....1145259990
Cherry
mischivusfairy-warrior [at] yahoo [dot] com
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Well I think it depends on the plot, but lately I prefer to read books about open UF world.
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I have no preference. I like them both. They both have different things to offer….Stacy
samnstacyATmeDOTcom
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Haha, I'd be interested in that calendar too!
I usually prefer when humans are not aware of other paranormal beings reallz existing, because it complicates the story: the paranormal beings have to save the world without revealing themselves and it can create funny and stressful moments. But it depends on the book, an open UF world can also be great and enjoyable!
stella.exlibris (at) gmail DOT com
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I like a hidden paranormal world, one where I can have the illusion that I could turn a corner and meet some of the paranormal creatures. Though an open world is also interesting.
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Haha, a calender would've been nice!
It really doesn't matter to me either way. Since I'm not a big UF reader, I am indifferent to either.
faked_sugartone at hotmail
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@The Book Vixen
Vampires causing trouble? I like it! I like it a lot!
@Cherry
Very true. A good writer can make a wide range of things work.
@Sheere
I see. Thanks for commenting. ^_^
@Stacy Stew
Agreed—they both do have their own unique advantages.
@Stella
Good point.
@Deirdre
That “what if it’s really true…” factor has helped get me through many traffic jams with my sanity intact.
@Diana Dang
Thanks for commenting.
~~~
And thank you all for participating. Thanks again to Book Chick City. And congrats to the winner!
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